Schools Advice on the BS degree that would best compliment grad school interests.

AI Thread Summary
When considering a bachelor's degree with the goal of pursuing a master's or PhD in Geophysics, Planetary Science, or Astrobiology, the choice between a BS in Geology and Geophysics versus a BS in Physics is crucial. A physics degree may provide greater flexibility for various graduate school paths, including engineering, while a geology-focused program offers specialized coursework, field training, and research opportunities directly aligned with the intended career in earth sciences. Some participants suggest that a combination of majors or a minor in math could enhance prospects in physics-related fields. Ultimately, the decision should weigh the benefits of specialized training against the versatility of a broader physics education.
Haymaker
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
At the moment I am planning to pursue a bachelors with the end goal of obtaining a masters and potentially a PhD in either the areas of Geophysics, Planetary science, or maybe even Astrobiology. The University I would be attending for the BS degree does offer a BS in Geology and Geophysics, but I was wondering if I should be considering a BS in Physics instead?

The main reason I would consider the physics degree is because it would appear to offer more flexibility in the event I would prefer to go in another direction for graduate school (ie engineering, etc). However it would seem that the geo course work, field training, and research would be most beneficial if I do continue down my intended path.

Anyone with experience in these fields or related fields that could offer some advice?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Maybe major in physics and then minor in whatever you're interested in. Also, a math minor will most likely help you in whatever field of physics you go into. There's also the possibility of double majoring too...
 
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
I graduated with a BSc in Physics in 2020. Since there were limited opportunities in my country (mostly teaching), I decided to improve my programming skills and began working in IT, first as a software engineer and later as a quality assurance engineer, where I’ve now spent about 3 years. While this career path has provided financial stability, I’ve realized that my excitement and passion aren’t really there, unlike what I felt when studying or doing research in physics. Working in IT...
Hello, I’m an undergraduate student pursuing degrees in both computer science and physics. I was wondering if anyone here has graduated with these degrees and applied to a physics graduate program. I’m curious about how graduate programs evaluated your applications. In addition, if I’m interested in doing research in quantum fields related to materials or computational physics, what kinds of undergraduate research experiences would be most valuable?

Similar threads

Back
Top